In an effort to improve the quality of life of its residents, the Bellefonte Police Department will be collecting unwanted prescription pills during business hours.

The department was able to secure an old USPS mailbox and repurpose it as a prescription drug drop point.

Officer Jason Brower told Borough Council the department hopes it will be a way to help solve the prescription drug problem the town is facing. Brower said because many of the pills are in homes and easy to access, addiction becomes a problem in many towns.

“I think it’s going to be a very big win for us and the community in trying to get some of this stuff away,” he said.

On the first day, Brower said the box was used four times.

When Bellefonte receives the pills, they are taken in bulk to Penn State where they are incinerated for a very low cost, Brower said. This drop box will allow the police department to be ahead of the game, he said.

Bellefonte will continue to advertise the service to make sure people know about it, and officials are hoping it is used frequently. Brower said it’s the only permanent drop-off point in Centre County.

A list of what will and won’t be accepted will be posted. Brower said pills can be left in their original containers or placed in bags, and said liquids like insulin will also be accepted, even in glass containers. Other glass products may not be taken and they will not accept items such as needles, he said.

It will be locked in the police station during non-business hours, but the drop-off can be accessed Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.